Willis Towers Watson Business Analyst Interview Questions + Guide in 2025
Overview
Willis Towers Watson is a leading global advisory, broking, and solutions company dedicated to helping clients turn risk into a pathway for growth.
As a Business Analyst at Willis Towers Watson, you will be pivotal in delivering HR technology solutions tailored to meet client needs. This role entails gathering and documenting functional requirements, conducting data analysis, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize solutions. You will leverage your expertise in SQL to analyze data, create specifications, and validate outcomes to ensure high-quality service delivery. Additionally, understanding the intersection of technology and human resources will be essential, as you work on projects related to employee benefits, compensation, and talent management. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, effective communication capabilities, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, all of which align with the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
This guide aims to provide you with insights and strategies to prepare effectively for your interview at Willis Towers Watson, enhancing your chances of success in securing the Business Analyst role.
Willis Towers Watson Business Analyst Interview Process
The interview process for a Business Analyst position at Willis Towers Watson is structured and thorough, designed to assess both technical and interpersonal skills. Candidates can expect a multi-step process that includes various interview formats and focuses on their analytical capabilities, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit within the organization.
1. Initial Screening
The process typically begins with an initial screening, which may be conducted via a phone call or a video interview. During this stage, a recruiter will discuss your resume, work history, and motivations for applying. This is also an opportunity for the recruiter to gauge your fit for the company culture and the specific role.
2. HireVue Interview
Following the initial screening, candidates are often required to complete a HireVue interview. This is a recorded video interview where you will respond to a series of pre-set questions. The questions may cover your background, experiences, and situational responses. It’s important to prepare concise and relevant answers, as you will have limited time to respond to each question.
3. Technical and Behavioral Interviews
Candidates who successfully pass the HireVue stage will move on to one or more technical and behavioral interviews. These interviews may be conducted by team members or managers and will focus on your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience with SQL and data analysis. Expect to answer questions using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format to illustrate your past experiences effectively.
4. Panel Interview
In some cases, candidates may participate in a panel interview, where they will meet with multiple interviewers from different departments. This format allows the interviewers to assess how well you can communicate and collaborate with various stakeholders. Questions will likely focus on your ability to work in a team, manage projects, and handle client interactions.
5. Case Study or Practical Assessment
Some candidates may be asked to complete a case study or practical assessment as part of the interview process. This could involve analyzing a hypothetical business scenario, developing requirements, or creating a test plan based on provided specifications. This step is crucial for demonstrating your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in a real-world context.
6. Final Interview
The final stage often involves a more in-depth discussion with senior management or partners. This interview may include a review of your case study or practical assessment, as well as discussions about your long-term career goals and how they align with the company’s objectives. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the team, projects, and company culture.
Throughout the interview process, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experiences with data analysis, SQL, and any relevant technologies, as well as demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Next, let’s explore the types of questions you might encounter during this interview process.
Willis Towers Watson Business Analyst Interview Questions
In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Business Analyst interview at Willis Towers Watson. The interview process will likely assess your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of business processes, particularly in the context of HR technology solutions. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences, technical skills, and how you approach various business challenges.
Experience and Background
1. Can you walk us through your resume and highlight your relevant experience?
This question is common and allows you to set the stage for the interview by summarizing your professional journey.
How to Answer
Focus on your most relevant experiences, particularly those that align with the responsibilities of a Business Analyst. Highlight specific projects or roles that demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to work with data.
Example
“I graduated with a degree in Management Information Systems and have spent the last five years working as a Business Analyst. In my previous role at XYZ Corp, I led a project to streamline our HR processes, which involved gathering requirements from stakeholders and implementing a new software solution that improved efficiency by 30%.”
Technical Skills
2. How do you approach gathering requirements from clients?
Understanding how to gather and document requirements is crucial for a Business Analyst.
How to Answer
Discuss your methods for engaging with clients, such as conducting interviews, surveys, or workshops. Emphasize the importance of clear communication and active listening.
Example
“I typically start by scheduling one-on-one meetings with key stakeholders to understand their needs. I use open-ended questions to encourage discussion and follow up with a summary of our conversation to ensure alignment before documenting the requirements.”
3. What is your experience with SQL and how have you used it in your previous roles?
SQL skills are essential for data analysis in this role.
How to Answer
Provide specific examples of how you have used SQL to extract, manipulate, or analyze data. Mention any relevant projects or outcomes.
Example
“In my last position, I used SQL to analyze employee engagement survey data. I wrote complex queries to segment the data by department and identify trends, which helped our HR team develop targeted initiatives to improve engagement.”
4. Can you describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a technical issue?
Problem-solving is a key skill for a Business Analyst.
How to Answer
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Focus on your analytical approach to identifying and resolving the issue.
Example
“During a system implementation, we encountered a data migration issue that caused discrepancies in employee records. I led a root cause analysis, identified the source of the error in the data mapping process, and collaborated with the IT team to correct it, ensuring a smooth transition.”
Behavioral Questions
5. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult team member. How did you handle it?
Collaboration is essential in a team environment.
How to Answer
Discuss your approach to conflict resolution and maintaining professionalism. Highlight your communication skills and ability to find common ground.
Example
“I once worked with a team member who was resistant to feedback. I scheduled a private meeting to discuss our project goals and listened to their concerns. By acknowledging their perspective and finding a compromise, we were able to work together more effectively.”
6. How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple competing deadlines?
Time management is critical for a Business Analyst.
How to Answer
Explain your prioritization process, such as using a matrix or assessing the impact of each task. Mention any tools or techniques you use to stay organized.
Example
“I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and impact on the project. I use project management tools like Trello to visualize my workload and ensure I’m focusing on high-priority items first. Regular check-ins with my team also help me adjust priorities as needed.”
Situational Questions
7. How would you handle a situation where a client’s expectations are not aligned with the project deliverables?
Managing client expectations is crucial in consulting roles.
How to Answer
Discuss your approach to communication and setting realistic expectations. Emphasize the importance of transparency and collaboration.
Example
“If I notice a misalignment, I would arrange a meeting with the client to discuss their expectations and clarify the project scope. I believe in being transparent about what can realistically be delivered and would work with them to adjust the project plan if necessary.”
8. Can you give an example of a project where you had to analyze data to make a business recommendation?
Analytical skills are a core component of the Business Analyst role.
How to Answer
Describe the project, the data you analyzed, and the recommendation you made based on your findings.
Example
“In a previous role, I analyzed employee turnover data to identify trends. I discovered that turnover was highest among new hires within their first six months. Based on this analysis, I recommended implementing a structured onboarding program, which ultimately reduced turnover by 20%.”
Company-Specific Questions
9. Why do you want to work for Willis Towers Watson?
This question assesses your motivation and fit for the company.
How to Answer
Research the company’s values, culture, and recent initiatives. Align your answer with your career goals and how you can contribute to their mission.
Example
“I admire WTW’s commitment to innovation in HR technology and its focus on empowering clients. I’m excited about the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment where I can leverage my analytical skills to help organizations navigate their benefits challenges.”
10. How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in business analysis?
Continuous learning is important in a rapidly changing field.
How to Answer
Mention any professional organizations, certifications, or resources you utilize to stay informed.
Example
“I regularly attend industry webinars and participate in local business analysis meetups. I’m also a member of the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and follow relevant publications to keep up with best practices and emerging trends.”